The 12 Best Small-Town New Hampshire Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of
One thing’s for sure – New Hampshire loves a good festival. You already know not to miss the big country fairs or Laconia Motorcycle Week, but have you heard of these smaller but no less fun local festivals? Whether you want to learn about UFOs, meet some friendly sheep, or dig into a bowl of prize-winning chili, there’s a celebration for you.
Mark your calendar and get ready for some unique New Hampshire experiences – and plenty of delicious treats!
Take a trip back in time July 15, 2017, at the American Independence Festival. With tours of the American Independence Museum, reenactments of Revolutionary War encampments, crafts for kids, and tasty snacks, this festival will be a lot more fun than history class.
Whether or not you have any Scottish blood in your veins, you need to check out this festival. Watch traditional athletics and dance, sample Scottish delicacies, and listen to fantastic music, September 15-17, 2017.
Sample craft beers and delicious chicken wings at Nashua’s historic Holman Stadium. If you’re feeling competitive, join in a game of cornhole, or bring along your family to enjoy a wide range of children’s activities. This year’s festival is August 19, 2017.
With beverages, food, and plenty of entertainment, this festival is a great draw for spice-lovers from across the state. Come ready to burn your tongue on August 20, 2017!
Are you a knitter, felter, or just a sheep lover? Then you won’t want to miss the New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival, where you can see herding dog demonstrations, learn about spinning technique, and of course, buy plenty of wool. This year’s event is May 13-14, 2017.
Taste-test 20 different chowders and enjoy live music as you kick off summer at Portsmouth’s Prescott Park this June 3.
Bring your little ones to explore the world’s largest fairy house tour, with magical houses built by both community members and professional artists. The enchantment runs from September 23-24, 2017.
Book a balloon ride or take photos from the ground while enjoying carnival rides, food, stage acts, and a road race. The fun lasts four days, July 6-9, 2017.
Whether you’re a UFO true believer or a skeptic, you’re certain to learn something from the UFO enthusiasts around the country who’ll gather in Exeter September 2-3, 2017.
Enjoy three days of small-town fall fun October 6-8, 2017, with musical entertainment, parades, road races, and more.
This brewfest only features New Hampshire nano-breweries. Sip some samples and get a new pint glass to add to your collection on June 17, 2017!
With a haunted trail, food and beverages, two sound stages, and of course, plenty of pumpkins, this festival offers something for pumpkin lovers of all ages. Carve your pumpkins October 6-8, 2017.
As you can see, there is truly a festival for every interest in New Hampshire. Residents and visitors alike will have plenty to keep them busy in 2017!
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